DESCRIPTION: This survey course will chart the history of Christianity from AD
590 to the Protestant Reformation of the sixteenth century. About one-third of
the study will focus on the medieval era, its key personalities and major
theological movements, while the Reformation will receive a lion's share of
attention due to its central importance in church history.
SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: Christianity is a uniquely historical
religion. It is rooted and grounded in historical events. To minister
effectively in any age requires a thorough knowledge of the eras that have
shaped the present. This course will provide the student with a historical
context for ministry, and especially for teaching and preaching.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students successfully completing this course will have
demonstrated (1) a grasp of and an ability to articulate the key doctrinal and
historical themes that marked the development of the Church from the early
Medieval period through the Reformation of the sixteenth century; (2) an
ability to accurately interpret historical events and ideas in their
appropriate contexts, specifically creeds, movements, church architecture, and
treatises; (3) that they are equipped to think critically about the key issues,
theological ideas, major movements, and influential personalities that shaped
the Church in the Medieval and early modern periods, and as the end result of
this study; (4) a deeper appreciation of the breadth, unity, and diversity of
the Church.
COURSE FORMAT: The class will meet twice weekly in two-hour sessions for
lecture and discussion, and regular attendance is very important. Time in class
will center on lecture and student interaction.
REQUIRED READING: